Fourth of July Festivities from Coast to Coast Travel Families.com

If you are planning to spend the long Fourth of July holiday weekend in California, Colorado, Texas or Massachusetts you’re in for a real treat. The aforementioned states are home to some of the most unique Independence Day parades in the country.

Load up the family wagon (or minivan), find room for a few lawn chairs, and don’t forget to pack a few miniature flags to wave at parade participants and the many men and women who risk their lives fighting for the freedoms we treasure.

CALIFORNIA—Old Glory Boat Parade

Newport Harbor on Balboa Island is home to a spectacularly festive Fourth of July boat parade. The event first started in the 1950s with just a handful of vessels, but over the years Balboa’s parade on water has become a must-attend event and now includes some 100 entries, from tall clipper ships to yachts, sailboats and dinghies. Each craft is decorated in a patriotic theme and organizers say the crowds go wild as participants try to outdo each other using music, costumes, and outlandish decorations to show off their pride for our beloved country.

COLORADO—Greeley Independence Day Parade

Greeley’s annual Independence Day parade is part of what is hailed as “The World’s Largest Fourth of July Rodeo and Western Celebration.” And talk about unique–the parade starts with 110 head of longhorn steers and a U.S. Air Force flyover. The procession also features dozens of marching bands, floats and rodeo clowns.

TEXAS—“We the People” 4th of July Parade

Everything is bigger in Texas and Fourth of July parades are no exception. In the quaint town of Belton (located about 40 miles north of Austin) the annual Independence Day parade has been around since the mid-1800s and became an annual event in 1919. In the years since it has attracted a loyal following. So loyal, in fact, that organizers say the marching procession draws thousands of participants and spectators from across the state. The famous holiday parade features floats, bands, decorated bicycles, classic cars and rodeo riders.

MASSACHUSETTS—Pittsfield 4th of July Parade

Pittsfield’s Fourth of July Parade dates back to 1824, when it was known as “Your Hometown America Parade.” Back then the procession consisted of Revolutionary War veterans and politicians riding in horse-drawn carriages. These days the parade boasts modern floats, giant balloons, marching bands and acrobats.

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